Catherine, Princess of Wales, is known for effortlessly pairing a tiara with priceless jewels, yet she also embraces more affordable pieces. Her jewelry collection ranges from costly gems to budget-friendly items, and she enjoys mixing expensive accessories with high-fashion outfits to let her style speak for itself. Royal beauty experts have pointed out that unlike some of her predecessors, Catherine is a very hands-on mother, making her more down-to-earth and distanced from the grandeur associated with royal jewels. This relatable approach makes her more accessible to the public and allows everyday fashion lovers to replicate her look more easily.
Here are some notable occasions when Princess Catherine wore affordable jewelry:
In June 2023, Catherine attended Royal Ascot, looking stunning in a monochrome outfit paired with statement earrings. She wore Sezane gold drop studs with black beads, which perfectly complemented her crimson hat, handbag, and footwear. Her sapphire engagement ring added a touch of regal elegance. Interestingly, these same earrings were a Christmas gift from Prince William in 2022, showing that even the future King knows how to pick out affordable yet stylish jewelry.
Every time Catherine steps out in a glamorous outfit, the "Kate Effect" ripples through the fashion world. Businesses behind her clothing and jewelry often see a surge in sales, and this applies to her jewelry as well. When she wore Spells of Love earrings in 2022, the brand's sales skyrocketed. These gold earrings, along with a crimson coat, made a statement during Queen Elizabeth II’s mourning period, and the affordable price tag did not diminish their impact.
Catherine is also known for her love of pearls. From bracelets to necklaces and brooches, she often pairs these timeless pieces with her outfits. In early 2022, she wore a $150 pearl necklace with pearl studs and a red Zara coat. This affordable yet chic combination further solidified her reputation for mixing high-end fashion with accessible accessories.
Catherine frequently wears gold studs, and one of her go-to brands is ASOS. In 2021, she wore a pair of $12 twist earrings, which quickly sold out after being restocked. She has a history with the brand, having worn ASOS clothing during her pregnancy with Princess Charlotte in 2015, and again in 2023 when she donned a vibrant blue outfit to the ballet with her daughter.
Despite being royalty, Catherine continues to wear affordable pieces, even after inheriting much of Queen Elizabeth’s jewelry collection. In 2022, she wore a Chanel coat paired with a $200 gold and blue gemstone necklace, showing her dedication to high-low fashion. This trend makes her style both accessible and relatable to her admirers around the world.
Catherine’s sister, Pippa Middleton, has also contributed to her jewelry collection. In 2013, following the birth of Prince George, Pippa gifted Catherine a bespoke piece of jewelry from Messy M. This thoughtful gift has since become a favorite, with the necklace now named "The Duchess Necklace" and available for around $189.
